Funding from the Alyeska Pipeline Native Scholarship Program allowed Doyon Foundation to award competitive scholarships to two students pursuing vocational/technical education while balancing work and family last year.
One of these students was Theodore “Ted” Cruise. Originally from McGrath, Ted currently lives in Meridian, Idaho, with his girlfriend, Joyelyn; daughter, Kaylee, 11; and son, Tylan, 3. For the past five years, Ted has worked full-time on the North Slope for ASRC Energy Services’ Wells Support. Last year, he was accepted to the process technology program at Bismarck State College.
“Balancing a full-time job, college and raising two kids can be overwhelming. When I started college, I didn’t tell anybody because I didn’t know if I was smart enough to do it,” Ted shared. “Having the support from Doyon Foundation from the start of college helped me believe in myself and motivated me to succeed because I’m not one to let people down.”
“I received notice I was also awarded a scholarship from Alyeska Pipeline Company. Having their support is surreal. They’re a prestigious company that works in my field and is directly related to my career,” said Ted, who recently switched his degree to petroleum production and is now in his third semester with a 3.3 GPA.
“I’m thankful for Doyon Foundation and Alyeska Pipeline Company support and believing in me and guiding me closer to my goals,” he said.
Chael Idzinski was another student who benefitted from the Alyeska-funded scholarship. Chael, who lives in Soldotna, graduated in December 2021 from the Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC) with a degree in diesel and heavy equipment technologies.
Inspired by his young daughter to further his education, Chael said, “I am a driven individual working towards a successful future for my loved ones and myself. My scholarship means a lot to me! I am very thankful for the support that I have received on working towards achieving my goals.”
The scholarship funded by Alyeska was open to both part-time and full-time students studying one of the following discipline areas:
- Heavy equipment/diesel mechanics
- Process technology/instrumentation
- Construction
- Welding
- Electrical training
- CDL
Applicants also had to meet Doyon Foundation scholarship eligibility requirements.
“This scholarship was optimal for students pursuing a vocational education while also working,” said Purestyn Milk, Doyon Foundation scholarship manager. “We understand the difficulties of balancing work with school, and we’re grateful for Alyeska’s partnership to help support these students.”
To learn more about Doyon Foundation scholarships and upcoming opportunities, please visit www.doyonfoundation.com/scholarships. For more information or assistance, contact Doyon Foundation at [email protected] or 907.459.2049.